Make connections and give back over spring break with Sko Serve
Looking for a meaningful way to spend your spring break? Through Sko Serve, you can explore a new community, participate in service projects and connect with other CU Boulder students along the way.
When Kate Goray, a fourth-year student and neuroscience major, was making spring break plans in 2025, she saw Sko Serve as an opportunity to combine two interests: traveling and volunteering. What she discovered was an experience that helped her build lasting friendships, learn about community challenges and grow as a leader.
Experience service in a new community
Kate's group traveled to Salt Lake City, Utah, where they volunteered with The Road Home, an organization that provides services to people experiencing homelessness. Throughout the week, students spent time supporting the organization's work, learning about housing insecurity and reflecting on their experiences.
The learning began before the trip. Through predeparture meetings, students explored the issues affecting the community and got to know their fellow participants.
"I was surprised by how much time we spent learning about the issue in the weeks prior to the trip," Kate said. "However, looking back, I don't think the trip would have been as impactful if we didn't have those meetings."
During the trip, students also participated in group discussions and other reflection activities to connect what they learned with their service experiences.
Build friendships along the way
Sko Serve also offers opportunities for students to meet other Buffs and build connections through shared experiences.
Between service projects, Kate's group prepared meals together, explored Salt Lake City and spent time getting to know one another. One of her favorite memories was gathering around a fire to make s'mores and reflect on the week before heading home.
"It was so amazing to sit around the fire with people that I had just recently met but felt so comfortable around," Kate said.
Although she didn't know anyone when she signed up, Kate developed friendships that continued long after the trip.
"This trip definitely allowed me to meet people that I would never have otherwise," she said. "As a result, it really helped me feel more connected to CU and find a place within the institution."
Grow through service
Kate enjoyed her first Sko Serve trip so much that she decided to return as a site leader the following year. The role gave her an opportunity to take on new responsibilities and develop leadership skills while continuing to participate in service.
"Site leading was such a rewarding experience because I still got to travel and volunteer, but I was also able to grow so much as a leader," Kate said.
Join Sko Serve this spring
Ready to make the most of your spring break? Sko Serve gives CU Boulder students the opportunity to travel, learn about social and community issues, participate in meaningful service and connect with fellow Buffs. Applications open Nov. 9, 2026 and close Jan. 21, 2027.